The research study below from LMC Automotive points to where the automotive industry is going. The direction is really not all that surprising. Engines are continuing to get smaller and the number of turbocharged engines is increasing.

As a matter of fact, turbo engines will overtake naturally aspirated engines in market share. Those same turbo engine are pushing a gain in specific output of ten horsepower per liter. The reason is obviously due to downsizing of displacement and increasing output thanks to boost.

Another interesting aspect is that inline-3 cylinder engines are becoming more popular. Great for commuter cars but not so great for enthusiasts. Ultimately, with more turbocharged enthusiast motors this really does not matter. Turbo tuning is only set to increase. A good time to be a BoostAddict, eh?

Diesels are also becoming a bit less popular even in Europe. No doubt emissions scandals have played a part in this as well as a shift to electrification.

DCT adoption continues to grow with 10-speed transmissions seemingly being the new norm. How many more gears are they going to cram in?

A big uptake in hybrids is expected in 2019 and on to 2022. Expect hybrid sports cars at that time as well.

As long as manufacturers don't give up on enthusiast cars this is all fine and dandy. The naturally aspirated and big displacement enthusiast car is quite definitely a dying breed. Enjoy them while you can.